ABTA and Advantage Travel Centres are working with members to ensure customers know what to expect when the EU Entry/Exit System (EES) comes into force in less than three months’ time.
The EU has confirmed the EES will start from 12 October, and the phased implementation will last until 9 April 2026. From 10 April 2026, EES will be fully operational at all EU borders.
At the same time, it emerged the cost of the EU European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) visa-waiver will rise from €7 (£6) to €20 (£17) when it launches next year.
ABTA Chief Executive Mark Tanzer said: “The confirmation of a 12 October start date for the phased introduction of the Entry/Exit System (EES) provides clarity for the travel industry and allows ABTA members to begin advising their customers on the changes.
“In the run-up to EES phased implementation it is important there is a clear communication plan from both the EU and the UK Government, so UK travellers know what’s expected of them and to build confidence in the new process. ABTA will also share relevant materials with our members to help build awareness, including on our dedicated EES and ETIAS webpages.
“We also encourage EU member states to adopt the EES app, as soon as possible. The app will allow travellers to provide information in advance and cut down EES processing times at airports and ports.”
Advantage Travel Partnership CEO Julia Lo Bue-Said OBE said: “Now there is an official start date in October for the roll out of EES for British travellers visiting the EU, it is essential that there is a smooth and efficient process for border staff to implement the new measures in order to minimise any possible disruption faced by travellers on their journeys.
“With the October half term following soon after, we are anticipating high demand for travel which could see significant delays if border staff have not received the necessary preparation to adjust to the new processes.
“As countries across the EU will be adopting the system at different stages over the first six months, it is not yet clear which destinations will be first to adopt the technology and require British travellers to provide fingerprints and facial biometrics. We expect the EES to be a small addition to the process of travel and have minimal impact on the incredibly strong demand we are seeing for travel this year from consumers.”
Julia added it is ‘incredibly disappointing to see the significant rise in cost’ of the ETIAS visa, from its planned cost of €7 to €20.
“For many travellers, especially university students, families, and budget-conscious tourists, this sharp increase adds an unnecessary burden and makes travel to Europe less accessible. A move like this undermines the spirit of open travel and feels more like a revenue grab than a justified policy change,” she said.
“Advantage is working together with all our travel agent partners to ensure they are aware of the new processes and are able to help their customers.”
